Three-try Nixon lifts promotion hopefuls

RUGBY:

WATERHEAD moved a step closer to promotion from Division Two of the National Conference League with a terrific 43-12 win over Crosfields at Rochdale Mayfield's ground last night.

Three of their seven tries came from centre Darren Nixon.

The victory lifted Waterhead above Dewsbury Celtic into third place with one game to go. The season ends on Saturday.

"Everybody is made up," said joint coach Paul Geener. “It wasn't faultless, but it was pretty comprehensive and deserved."

Celtic, a point adrift of Waterhead in fourth, are away to Dewsbury rivals Shaw Cross Sharks.



SADDLEWORTH Rangers completed their NCL Premier Division campaign at Leigh Miners last night.

Already-relegated Rangers trailed 26-0 at half-time, before eventually succumbing 50-30 in a thrilling 15-try clash.



BEATEN finalists in April, Saddleworth Rangers are away to Folly Lane in the opening round of the 2013 Standard Challenge Cup.

Holders Rochdale Mayfield, who ruined Rangers’ bid for a third straight triumph in the Oldham Amateur League’s knock-out competition with a 50-24 win, go to Oldham St Anne’s.